I am mentally challenged, not "retarded". This term is a slur, and should never be used to describe anyone. It is not some jovial endearment you use with a loved one, this is something that mentally challenged people have been labelled against their will. Want to know just how inappropriate it is? When someone was labelled this, they were often put into asylums. You saw it right, folks! If you were given this label, you were seen as undesirable, unwanted, and would then be locked away for the rest of your life.
Are you even aware of the message you're sending to the possibly mentally challenged people in your lives? You're telling them that no matter how progressive you claim you are, that you retain this negative stereotype of them. Do you call your gay friend(s), a faggot too? No? Then don't call someone's foolish actions, "retarded".
This is by no means dramatic, an overreaction, or me being "too sensitive". This is me being honest. This is me telling you, that you need to stop this. Don't be a part of the problem, that our culture has perpetuated.
But Carlie, what is the problem? Autism Speaks, and anti-vaxxer campaigners like to say that Autism is bad, that it's a death sentence, that it makes the individual a burden, that they're unworthy of love, and acceptance. None of this is true. I am an autistic individual. I am unique, I am amazing, I am supported and loved unconditionally. This is why it hurts when a relative, or friend uses this slur, because, if they see that being an adequate way of describing 'goofy', is that how they see me, the mentally challenged person?
Have I gotten my point across?
Have I said it enough times?
Have I said it enough times?
If you won't call me a faggot for being gay, don't call me (or anyone else) "retarded" for doing something "stupid".
Oh c'mon, seriously, it's not that bad. Yes. It. Is. Let's take a look at how dictionary.com defines this word, shall we?
1.) a slowing down, diminution, or hindrance, as in a machine.
2.) Slang: Disparaging and Offensive.
- a contemptuous term used to refer to a person who is cognitively impaired.
- a person who is stupid, obtuse, or ineffective in some way:a hopeless social retard.
Does this seem encouraging to you? To me, it is far from.
What are you expecting? We can't change the world, Carlie.
If you want to see change in the world, be it, but please, stop contributing to the problem.
